we begin with the developing story from washington. those 11th hour talks to avoid the fiscal cliff. this evening here after they came to a halt, the vice president has been called in, now playing a central role. but time is running out. just tonight and tomorrow left. and if no agreement, taxes will go up for all americans. in fact, the average american family would see a tax increase of more than $3,400. as congress convened, even the senate chaplain praying to avoid what the president first called "self-inflicted wounds." let's bring in jon karl. he's been at his post every step of the way. the source has told you the vice president has been called in on this. >> reporter: that's right. i'm told the vice president is now playing a direct role in these negotiations, trying to get to a deal, a last-minute deal, a key player in the final hours. president obama set off the high-stakes weekend scramble friday night, imploring congressional leaders to take action immediately. >> the american people are not going to have any patience for a